Milwaukee Cop Killing Case Heads to 2026 Trial

Judge schedules March 30 trial for Tremaine Jones in ambush that killed Officer Kendall Corder

Mar. 13, 2026 at 5:05pm

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A Milwaukee judge has scheduled a March 30, 2026 trial for Tremaine Jones, the 22-year-old charged in the June ambush that killed Milwaukee Police Officer Kendall Corder and wounded his partner. Jones faces charges of first-degree intentional homicide, attempted first-degree intentional homicide and first-degree recklessly endangering safety, which carry the possibility of life in prison. The judge has ordered around 100 potential jurors to be vetted due to the high-profile nature of the case.

Why it matters

The killing of Officer Corder drew widespread attention and grief in Milwaukee, highlighting the dangers police officers face and the community's response to such tragedies. The upcoming trial will be closely watched as it examines the details of the ambush and the potential consequences for the accused.

The details

According to court records, Jones pleaded not guilty at his July 18 appearance and was bound over for trial. Prosecutors presented scene evidence and witness testimony at the preliminary hearing, while the defense urged jurors to withhold judgment until the full case is heard in open court. First-degree intentional homicide is a Class A felony in Wisconsin, carrying a potential life sentence.

  • The trial is scheduled to begin on March 30, 2026.
  • Jones was charged in the June 26 ambush that killed Officer Corder and wounded his partner.
  • Officer Corder died of his injuries on June 29.

The players

Tremaine Jones

A 22-year-old man charged with first-degree intentional homicide, attempted first-degree intentional homicide and first-degree recklessly endangering safety in the ambush that killed Officer Kendall Corder.

Officer Kendall Corder

A Milwaukee police officer who was killed in the June 26 ambush.

Officer Christopher McCray

The partner of Officer Corder who was wounded in the June 26 ambush.

Judge Michelle Havas

The Milwaukee County Circuit Court judge presiding over the case.

Russell J.A. Jones

The defense attorney representing Tremaine Jones.

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What they’re saying

“We must hold off on judgment until we hear the full case in open court.”

— Russell J.A. Jones, Defense Attorney (TMJ4)

What’s next

The judge has scheduled a March 30 trial date and plans to vet around 100 potential jurors due to the high-profile nature of the case.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenges and dangers faced by law enforcement, as well as the importance of a fair and thorough judicial process in high-profile criminal cases that deeply impact the community.